These changes aim to increase compliance with Australian driving regulations, but still permit some migrants to convert their license without additional tests. Austroads has let the public know which countries will have to complete additional knowledge and driving tests in order to swap their license. Certain countries, have also attmpted to streamline the process, and will be permitted to swap their license without additional tests. As the agency responsible for the coordination of licensing across the Australian states and territories,
Driving Licence Conversion Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Implementation Date | 30 April 2025 (most states), exceptions later |
| Countries Affected | Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Hong Kong, Korea, and more |
| Testing Requirements | Knowledge + Practical test for most affected licences |
| Exceptions | Temporary visitors not affected |
| Translation | Official translation needed if licence not in English |
Permanent residents using licences from certain countries listed above such as Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, and more, have to get in contact with their local licensing boards to find out what requirements they have left to complete. These newly adjusted rules do not apply to short-term visitors who are able to drive with an overseas licence for the duration of their granted time.
Why Are These Changes Necessary?
Austroads document ed that some overseas licences conversion from Austrailia were done using a much lower standard of scrutiny, in some cases creating gaps that drove a wedge between international standards of driving with overseas licencing and driving with Australian licencing. The renewed system concentrates on a more elaborated Safe System that ensures all converted licence holders have robust theoretical and on-field driving capabilities before licencing. This is crucial for younger and inexperienced drivers from countries which do not follow the Australian standards of driving ”. By creating a necessary set of rules that all Austraillian drivers must follow, the risk of road accidents is substantially decreased, allowing for a more robust public safety.
Effects for Residents and Migrants
Migrants who are licensed in countries that are losing the privileges of the automatic exchange may need to prepare for the theoretical and practical driving examinations. This entails training and assessment costs. Younger drivers who are under 25 years of age, and drivers that are citizens of countries that are not part of the scheme, will be subjected to full tests. Licensing authorities suggest that migrants begin the conversion process as soon as possible to reduce the likelihood of delays.
Expected Period of Changes and Exceptions
The new rules will be in force by 30 April 2025 for rest of the states. In the case of Western Australia, adoption of the rules will 31 October 2025. Queensland has a mid-2025 target that is still pending legislative approval. For migrants, the deadlines set by local licensing authorities will be of particular relevance as they hold licenses under the old rules. Remote license holders should still be careful of any round-up deadlines. Not converted and still tested visitors do not have any legislative changes, and are able to drive for the period of time specified by the overseas licenses issued to them without conversion.
Steps to Follow
Migrants who want to convert their driver licence are advised to look if any of their countries require testing. They are encouraged to reach out to their local country of residency and licensing authority to obtain any requirements and documentation needed, such as proof of identity and any needed translations as well. Before that, candidates can benefit from driving lessons or courses to prepare them for the Australian road rules. Although cumbersome, early action saves time and makes the adjustment on Australian roads much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will temporary visitors to Australia be impacted under the new rules for licensing?
No, temporary visitors can continue to drive with their overseas licence. They are able to do this without any testing or conversion.
2. Under the new rules, do all migrants have to take a driving test?
No, migrants from certain countries that are listed will be required to take the knowledge and practical tests. Migrants from other recognized countries will be able to exchange their licences without going through any test.
3. If my overseas licence is not in English, what do I do?
To apply for conversion for your licence, official translations from a certified translator or recognized translating body will suffice.
These changes should help align Australia’s driver licensing system with international safety standards, helping safeguard all drivers, while ensuring equitable access for migrants transitioning to Australia’s driving system.
